11 am
Incubus
The Weight of Regret and Indecision in '11 am' by Incubus
Incubus' song '11 am' delves into the themes of regret, indecision, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person reflecting on their past choices and the consequences that have followed. The song begins with the mundane sound of a garbage truck at 7 am, symbolizing the start of a new day and the protagonist's contemplation of what they've discarded in their life. This metaphor extends to the idea of wanting to rewind time and fix past mistakes, as indicated by the lines 'Could I push rewind?' and 'Could we please go back to start?' The protagonist's indecision and longing for a do-over are palpable, setting the tone for the rest of the song.
As the day progresses to 11 am, the protagonist remains in bed, weighed down by the 'heat of choices' they've made. This line suggests a sense of guilt and the emotional burden of their decisions. The mention of someone they deeply care about, who is no longer present, adds a layer of personal loss and yearning. The protagonist's fear and regret are encapsulated in the line 'I'm knee deep in my own fear,' highlighting their struggle to move forward. The repeated plea for forgiveness for their indecision underscores the internal conflict and self-awareness of their flaws.
By 12 PM, the protagonist's hope for reconciliation or a sign of change is symbolized by the ringing of a dusty telephone. The anticipation and desire for it to be the person they miss is a poignant moment, reflecting their longing for connection and resolution. The recurring refrain 'Then again, then again, then again' emphasizes the cyclical nature of their thoughts and emotions, as well as the inevitability of facing the consequences of their actions. The song concludes with the realization that the day has come when they want 'off that ride,' signifying a desire to break free from the cycle of regret and indecision. Incubus masterfully captures the complexity of human emotions and the struggle to come to terms with one's past in '11 am.'